Hardik Pandya’s return to form, according to Team India head coach Ravi Shastri, is a huge boost for the defending champions Mumbai Indians (MI).
Hardik, who struggled in the first half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021, returned to form against the Punjab Kings with an undefeated 40 off 30 (PBKS). His knock proved key in getting MI over the finish line in tight pursuit.
Shastri described Hardik as a confident player who, now that he has scored some runs, will be a different player.
“Hardik Pandya’s very much a confidence player. Sometimes, when you are not 100 percent, it can play on your mind. So it was important from the Mumbai Indians’ (MI) point of view that he first got on to the park, and then scored the runs. I have known Hardik for a long time. Once he gets into the groove, he can string 4-5 match-winning scores,” the 59-year-old said
Hardik Pandya hammered Mohammed Shami for two fours and a six to seal the game for MI with one over to spare against PBKS with 16 needed from 12 balls.
Delhi Capitals
In Sharjah, MI will meet the Delhi Capitals in the hopes of keeping their playoff aspirations alive. When asked for his thoughts on the game, Shastri predicted that MI will win.
“Both MI and DC are very good, but I would give Mumbai the edge. Delhi faltered in the last game and Mumbai is just getting that upswing going with Hardik getting some runs. Let’s face it, Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav are due. If they start firing as well, then it’s a different ball game. So I would give them the edge.” He explained
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